The Facts of Life episode “The Apartment” (Season 7, Episode 1) marks a pivotal moment for Natalie Green, played by Mindy Cohn, as it depicts her moving into her own apartment near Eastland Academy. While the immediate storyline involves the trials and tribulations of living independently, the episode ultimately served as a catalyst for Natalie’s growth and evolving storylines throughout the series, impacting her relationships and career aspirations.
Natalie’s Independence: “The Apartment” and its Significance
The episode “The Apartment” is more than just a sitcom installment; it represents a significant character arc development for Natalie. After years of sharing space at Eastland, the episode sees her taking a bold step towards independence, renting a small apartment near the school. The narrative focuses on the challenges she faces: financial constraints, maintaining the apartment, and the emotional shift of living away from her close-knit group. It highlights her resourcefulness and determination as she navigates this new chapter.
The financial realities of independence are a major theme. Natalie, never one to shy away from hard work, juggles various jobs to make ends meet. This demonstrates her responsibility and provides a relatable scenario for young viewers contemplating leaving home. Moreover, the episode explores the emotional complexities of moving out. While excited about the freedom, Natalie also experiences loneliness and a longing for the camaraderie of her friends. This balance between independence and connection is a central theme that resonates throughout the series.
Ultimately, “The Apartment” established a new status quo for Natalie. She wasn’t just one of the girls at Eastland anymore; she was an independent young woman carving out her own path. This set the stage for more mature storylines, including her budding journalism career and her explorations of romantic relationships.
FAQs About Natalie Green and The Facts of Life
Here are some frequently asked questions that offer a deeper understanding of Natalie’s character and her journey on The Facts of Life:
1. Why did Natalie move into her own apartment?
Natalie’s move to her own apartment was a deliberate narrative decision to showcase her growth and independence. After several seasons living at Eastland, the writers wanted to explore new storylines that reflected her evolving maturity. The apartment provided a tangible representation of her self-sufficiency and allowed for more relatable and adult-oriented challenges.
2. Did Natalie’s living arrangement affect her friendships with Blair, Jo, and Tootie?
While Natalie’s move initially caused some adjustment and a hint of jealousy, it ultimately strengthened their bond. The friends continued to support each other, both in and out of Eastland. The apartment became a new gathering place, and the separation highlighted the importance of their connection, even as they pursued individual paths.
3. What kind of jobs did Natalie have to support herself?
Natalie’s resourcefulness was a key aspect of her character. She held various part-time jobs, including working at a local bakery, as a typist, and eventually as a reporter for the local newspaper. These experiences not only provided her with financial stability but also shaped her future career aspirations in journalism.
4. How did Natalie’s relationship with Edna Garrett change after she moved out?
Natalie’s relationship with Edna Garrett remained strong. While Edna was no longer her direct guardian, she continued to provide guidance and support. The dynamic shifted from a mother-daughter relationship to more of a mentorship and friendship, with Edna offering advice on everything from finances to relationships.
5. Did Natalie ever move back into Eastland?
No, Natalie never permanently moved back into Eastland. Her apartment became her established residence, representing her independent life. While she frequently visited Eastland and relied on her friends, she maintained her own space throughout the rest of the series.
6. How did Natalie’s experience living alone influence her career path?
Living independently forced Natalie to be resourceful, responsible, and observant. These qualities directly translated into her burgeoning journalism career. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, honed through her everyday experiences, made her a compelling and relatable reporter.
7. What were some of the challenges Natalie faced living on her own?
Beyond financial struggles, Natalie faced challenges such as loneliness, feelings of isolation, and the responsibility of managing her own household. She also had to learn to budget, cook, and handle unexpected expenses, all valuable life lessons that shaped her into a more mature and self-reliant individual.
8. Did Natalie have any significant romantic relationships after moving into her apartment?
Yes, Natalie had several romantic relationships throughout the later seasons of The Facts of Life. These relationships were often complicated by her independence and her commitment to her career. They provided opportunities to explore themes of love, commitment, and the challenges of balancing personal and professional aspirations. One notable relationship was with Snake (played by Crispin Glover), who appeared in a few episodes.
9. How did Natalie’s character evolve throughout the series?
Natalie’s character evolved from a slightly awkward and insecure teenager into a confident and independent young woman. Her experiences, both at Eastland and in her own apartment, shaped her into a passionate journalist, a loyal friend, and a strong advocate for social justice.
10. What was Mindy Cohn’s perspective on Natalie’s evolution on the show?
Mindy Cohn has frequently expressed her pride in Natalie’s character development. She saw Natalie as a role model for young women, portraying her as intelligent, compassionate, and unafraid to speak her mind. Cohn believed that Natalie’s authenticity resonated with viewers and made her a relatable and inspiring figure.
11. How did “The Apartment” episode contribute to the overall themes of The Facts of Life?
“The Apartment” episode reinforced the central themes of The Facts of Life, including female empowerment, the importance of friendship, and the challenges of growing up. It highlighted the significance of independence, responsibility, and the pursuit of one’s dreams, while also acknowledging the importance of support and connection.
12. What is Natalie Green doing now, according to the show’s final episode?
In the series finale, Natalie is a successful journalist who is preparing to leave for Africa to report on famine relief efforts. This ending perfectly encapsulates her growth throughout the series and solidifies her commitment to using her voice to make a positive impact on the world. It’s a fitting culmination of her journey from Eastland student to independent young woman with a global perspective.